Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large lettuce leaves
- 4 large rice paper wrappers
- 1/2 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup warm water
Special equipment needed:
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Large plate
- Damp kitchen towel
- Small bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, toss the prawns with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for 10-15 seconds until it softens.
4. Place the softened wrapper on a damp kitchen towel. Add a lettuce leaf, a few vermicelli noodles, some shredded carrots, cucumber slices, cilantro, mint, and chopped peanuts on top of the wrapper.
5. Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. To make the spicy peanut sauce, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha sauce, garlic, and warm water in a small bowl until smooth.
8. Serve the prawn rolls with the spicy peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 6 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat for cooking the prawns
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 420
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 1160mg
Sugar: 13g
Fiber: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Shrimp can be used instead of prawns
- Any type of lettuce can be used instead of large lettuce leaves
- Any type of noodles can be used instead of vermicelli noodles
- Any type of nut can be used instead of peanuts
- Almond butter can be used instead of peanut butter
- Tamari sauce can be used instead of soy sauce
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado to the filling
- Use different herbs like basil or parsley
- Add sliced jalapenos for extra spice
- Use a different dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to not over-soak the rice paper wrappers or they will become too soft and tear easily
- Use a damp kitchen towel to keep the rice paper wrappers from sticking to your work surface
- To make the rolls ahead of time, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve
- The spicy peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week
Storage instructions:
Leftover prawn rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the prawn rolls, place them in a steamer basket over simmering water for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the prawn rolls on a platter and drizzle the spicy peanut sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
Chopped peanuts and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint
Pairings:
Serve with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice paper wrappers tear, use another wrapper and make sure to not over-soak it
- If the prawns are overcooked, they will become tough and rubbery
Food safety advice:
Make sure to properly store and refrigerate any leftover prawn rolls to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Vietnamese spring rolls, also known as summer rolls, are a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. They are typically filled with fresh herbs, vegetables, and protein and served with a dipping sauce.
Flavor profiles:
The prawn rolls have a fresh and light flavor from the herbs and vegetables, while the spicy peanut sauce adds a rich and savory element with a hint of heat.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the prawn rolls as an appetizer or light lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Thai